Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Moroni told Pahoran to repent and send forth food and men to help them retain the parts of the country they had regained and also recover parts that were lost. He said unless things changed and he could see that they were striving to strengthen and fortify their armies, he wold come to them and make sure that those who desired to usurp power and authority would become extinct. He said he would wait for assistance from them and if it did not come, he would come and smite them with a sword. Moroni said that he did not seek for power or the honors of the world, but for the glory of God and the freedom and welfare of his country.   Alma 60:24-36 "And now, except ye do repent of that which ye have done, and begin to be up and doing, and send forth food and men unto us, and also unto Helaman, that he may support those parts of our country which he has regained, and that we may also recover the remainder of our possessions in these parts, behold it will be expedient that we contend no more with the Lamanites until we have first cleansed our inward vessel, yea, even the great head of our government.  And except ye grant mine epistle, and come out and show unto me a true spirit of freedom, and strive to strengthen and fortify our armies, and grant unto them food for their support, behold I will leave a part of my freemen to maintain this part of our land, and I will leave the strength and the blessings of God upon them, that none other power can operate against them—  And this because of their exceeding faith, and their patience in their tribulations—  And I will come unto you, and if there be any among you that has a desire for freedom, yea, if there be even a spark of freedom remaining, behold I will stir up insurrections among you, even until those who have desires to usurp power and authority shall become extinct.  Yea, behold I do not fear your power nor your authority, but it is my God whom I fear; and it is according to his commandments that I do take my sword to defend the cause of my country, and it is because of your iniquity that we have suffered so much loss.  Behold it is time, yea, the time is now at hand, that except ye do bestir yourselves in the defence of your country and your little ones, the sword of justice doth hang over you; yea, and it shall fall upon you and visit you even to your utter destruction.  Behold, I wait for assistance from you; and, except ye do administer unto our relief, behold, I come unto you, even in the land of Zarahemla, and smite you with the sword, insomuch that ye can have no more power to impede the progress of this people in the cause of our freedom. 1 For behold, the Lord will not suffer that ye shall live and wax strong in your iniquities to destroy his righteous people.  Behold, can you suppose that the Lord will spare you and come out in judgment against the Lamanites, when it is the tradition of their fathers that has caused their hatred, yea, and it has been redoubled by those who have dissented from us, while your iniquity is for the cause of your love of glory and the vain things of the world? 3 Ye know that ye do transgress the laws of God, and ye do know that ye do trample them under your feet. Behold, the Lord saith unto me: If those whom ye have appointed your governors do not repent of their sins and iniquities, ye shall go up to battle against them.  And now behold, I, Moroni, am constrained, according to the covenant which I have made to keep the commandments of my God; therefore I would that ye should adhere to the word of God, and send speedily unto me of your provisions and of your men, and also to Helaman.  And behold, if ye will not do this I come unto you speedily; for behold, God will not suffer that we should perish with hunger; therefore he will give unto us of your food, even if it must be by the sword. Now see that ye fulfil the word of God.  Behold, I am Moroni, your chief captain. I seek not for power, but to pull it down. I seek not for honor of the world, but for the glory of my God, and the freedom and welfare of my country. And thus I close mine epistle."

In the New Testament we read that those who do righteousness is righteous like Jesus is righteous.  But those who commit sin belong to the devil who has been sinning since the beginning. When we are born of God, we will love one another.  But those who don't love others are like Cain who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother.  He murdered Cain because his own works were evil but the works of his brother were righteous.  1 John 3:7-12 "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.  He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.  In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.  For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.  Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet show pleadings with the Lord for forgiveness from sins.  Indeed, when we truly repent with all humility, the Lord will cleanse us whiter than snow and renew within us a right spirit.  We can have the joy of salvation restored to us.  Psalms 51:1-12 "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.  Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.  For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.  Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.  Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.  Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.  Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.  Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.  Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.  Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.  Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit." 

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Moroni recounted the wickedness among the Nephites which had allowed the Lamanites to gain power over them in the first place. He acused Pahoran of being a traitor to his country in his neglect of not sending help when it was so badly needed. He said they should not sit upon their thrones and do nothing while expecting the Lord to deliver them with no effort on their part.  Alma 60:15-23 "For were it not for the wickedness which first commenced at our head, we could have withstood our enemies that they could have gained no power over us.  Yea, had it not been for the war which broke out among ourselves; yea, were it not for these king-men, who caused so much bloodshed among ourselves; yea, at the time we were contending among ourselves, if we had united our strength as we hitherto have done; yea, had it not been for the desire of power and authority which those king-men had over us; had they been true to the cause of our freedom, and united with us, and gone forth against our enemies, instead of taking up their swords against us, which was the cause of so much bloodshed among ourselves; yea, if we had gone forth against them in the strength of the Lord, we should have dispersed our enemies, for it would have been done, according to the fulfilling of his word.  But behold, now the Lamanites are coming upon us, taking possession of our lands, and they are murdering our people with the sword, yea, our women and our children, and also carrying them away captive, causing them that they should suffer all manner of afflictions, and this because of the great wickedness of those who are seeking for power and authority, yea, even those king-men.  But why should I say much concerning this matter? For we know not but what ye yourselves are seeking for authority. We know not but what ye are also traitors to your country.  Or is it that ye have neglected us because ye are in the heart of our country and ye are surrounded by security, that ye do not cause food to be sent unto us, and also men to strengthen our armies? Have ye forgotten the commandments of the Lord your God? Yea, have ye forgotten the captivity of our fathers? Have ye forgotten the many times we have been delivered out of the hands of our enemies?  Or do ye suppose that the Lord will still deliver us, while we sit upon our thrones and do not make use of the means which the Lord has provided for us? Yea, will ye sit in idleness while ye are surrounded with thousands of those, yea, and tens of thousands, who do also sit in idleness, while there are thousands round about in the borders of the land who are falling by the sword, yea, wounded and bleeding?  Do ye suppose that God will look upon you as guiltless while ye sit still and behold these things? Behold I say unto you, Nay. Now I would that ye should remember that God has said that the inward vessel shall be cleansed first, and then shall the outer vessel be cleansed also."

In the New Testament were told to be on our guard that that we aren't lead off course into the error of sinful people and lose our own safe position.  Instead, we need to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  2 Peter 3:17-18 "Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. What a great comfort this is in our changing world where nothing seems to stay the same.  I hate change.  Just when I get the hang of how to use my cell phone, something new comes out with more stuff I need to learn. I remember when VCR's were brand new.  Then they got replaced by DVD's. It doesn't take many years at all for the newest craze to become obsolete.  When I see how much the world has changed just during my lifetime, in ways I never could have imagined when I was a teenager, it boggles my mind. But there is one constant we can count on.  The Lord does not change and never will.  Hebrews 13:8 "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Moroni sent another epistle to Pahoran, very angry that support had not been sent.  He recounted the suffering they had endured, including the slaughtering of thousands of people, which he said could have been avoided had the government sent support. He accused them of neglect, saying they were sitting on their thrones in a state of thoughtless stupor while their brethren were being murdered. He accused them of withholding provisions while their brethren starved with hunger. He said that the righteous were being slain because of their slothfulness and neglect.   Alma 60:1-14 "And it came to pass that he wrote again to the governor of the land, who was Pahoran, and these are the words which he wrote, saying: Behold, I direct mine epistle to Pahoran, in the city of Zarahemla, who is the chief judge and the governor over the land, and also to all those who have been chosen by this people to govern and manage the affairs of this war.  For behold, I have somewhat to say unto them by the way of condemnation; for behold, ye yourselves know that ye have been appointed to gather together men, and arm them with swords, and with cimeters, and all manner of weapons of war of every kind, and send forth against the Lamanites, in whatsoever parts they should come into our land.  And now behold, I say unto you that myself, and also my men, and also Helaman and his men, have suffered exceedingly great sufferings; yea, even hunger, thirst, and fatigue, and all manner of afflictions of every kind.  But behold, were this all we had suffered we would not murmur nor complain.  But behold, great has been the slaughter among our people; yea, thousands have fallen by the sword, while it might have otherwise been if ye had rendered unto our armies sufficient strength and succor for them. Yea, great has been your neglect towards us.  And now behold, we desire to know the cause of this exceedingly great neglect; yea, we desire to know the cause of your thoughtless state.  Can you think to sit upon your thrones in a state of thoughtless stupor, while your enemies are spreading the work of death around you? Yea, while they are murdering thousands of your brethren—  Yea, even they who have looked up to you for protection, yea, have placed you in a situation that ye might have succored them, yea, ye might have sent armies unto them, to have strengthened them, and have saved thousands of them from falling by the sword.  But behold, this is not all—ye have withheld your provisions from them, insomuch that many have fought and bled out their lives because of their great desires which they had for the welfare of this people; yea, and this they have done when they were about to perish with hunger, because of your exceedingly great neglect towards them.  And now, my beloved brethren—for ye ought to be beloved; yea, and ye ought to have stirred yourselves more diligently for the welfare and the freedom of this people; but behold, ye have neglected them insomuch that the blood of thousands shall come upon your heads for vengeance; yea, for known unto God were all their cries, and all their sufferings—  Behold, could ye suppose that ye could sit upon your thrones, and because of the exceeding goodness of God ye could do nothing and he would deliver you? Behold, if ye have supposed this ye have supposed in vain. Do ye suppose that, because so many of your brethren have been killed it is because of their wickedness? I say unto you, if ye have supposed this ye have supposed in vain; for I say unto you, there are many who have fallen by the sword; and behold it is to your condemnation; For the Lord suffereth the righteous to be slain that his justice and judgment may come upon the wicked; therefore ye need not suppose that the righteous are lost because they are slain; but behold, they do enter into the rest of the Lord their God. And now behold, I say unto you, I fear exceedingly that the judgments of God will come upon this people, because of their exceeding slothfulness, yea, even the slothfulness of our government, and their exceedingly great neglect towards their brethren, yea, towards those who have been slain."

In the New Testament we read that down through the ages the Lord has brought punishment to the wicked but protected the righteous among them.  Some examples are Noah protected from the floods and Lot protected when fire and brimstone came down from heaven. Sometimes it may seem like the Lord is slack in keeping His promises, but they will all be fulfilled in His own due time. 2 Peter 3:5-10 "For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished:  But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.  But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.  But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that God has plans for us--plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future.  When we call upon Him in prayer and He will listen to us.  If we seek Him, we will find Him.  Jeremiah 29:11-13 "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.  Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.  And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that when Moroni read Helaman's epistle, he was very happy over their welfare and over the fact that they had been able to regain the cities which had previously been lost. He sent an epistle to Pahoran asking that he send support so they could maintain the lands they had gained. He then made preparations to battle the Lamanites.  While he was still making those preparations, the Lamanites attacked the city of Nephihah and there was a great slaughter. The Lamanites were so numerous that the people of Nephihah fled before them and joined the army of Moroni. Moroni was angry with the government for not sending help, feeling that they were indifferent concerning the freedom of their country.   Alma 59:1-13 "Now it came to pass in the thirtieth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi, after Moroni had received and had read Helaman's epistle, he was exceedingly rejoiced because of the welfare, yea, the exceeding success which Helaman had had, in obtaining those lands which were lost. Yea, and he did make it known unto all his people, in all the land round about in that part where he was, that they might rejoice also.  And it came to pass that he immediately sent an epistle to Pahoran, desiring that he should cause men to be gathered together to strengthen Helaman, or the armies of Helaman, insomuch that he might with ease maintain that part of the land which he had been so miraculously prospered in regaining.  And it came to pass when Moroni had sent this epistle to the land of Zarahemla, he began again to lay a plan that he might obtain the remainder of those possessions and cities which the Lamanites had taken from them.  And it came to pass that while Moroni was thus making preparations to go against the Lamanites to battle, behold, the people of Nephihah, who were gathered together from the city of Moroni and the city of Lehi and the city of Morianton, were attacked by the Lamanites.  Yea, even those who had been compelled to flee from the land of Manti, and from the land round about, had come over and joined the Lamanites in this part of the land.  And thus being exceedingly numerous, yea, and receiving strength from day to day, by the command of Ammoron they came forth against the people of Nephihah, and they did begin to slay them with an exceedingly great slaughter.  And their armies were so numerous that the remainder of the people of Nephihah were obliged to flee before them; and they came even and joined the army of Moroni. And now as Moroni had supposed that there should be men sent to the city of Nephihah, to the assistance of the people to maintain that city, and knowing that it was easier to keep the city from falling into the hands of the Lamanites than to retake it from them, he supposed that they would easily maintain that city.  Therefore he retained all his force to maintain those places which he had recovered. And now, when Moroni saw that the city of Nephihah was lost he was exceedingly sorrowful, and began to doubt, because of the wickedness of the people, whether they should not fall into the hands of their brethren.  Now this was the case with all his chief captains. They doubted and marveled also because of the wickedness of the people, and this because of the success of the Lamanites over them.  And it came to pass that Moroni was angry with the government, because of their indifference concerning the freedom of their country."

In the New Testament we're told that if we want to love life and seek good days we should keep our tongue from speaking evil and our lips from speaking lies.  We should shun evil and do good, seeking peace and chasing after it.  The Lord will keep His eyes on the righteous and listen to their prayers, but He cannot tolerate those who do evil.  1 Peter 3:10-12 "For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:  Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil."

Some verses with a thought booklet emphasize the point that little things matter. Ants are small but are wise to prepare their food in the summer.  Tiny spiders may be found in the in the palaces of kings. Little things do matter.  One misplaced comma can change the meaning of a sentence.  One misplaced letter in an email address will make it undeliverable.  One harsh word can break a heart.  And one kind word can make a person's day and change their whole attitude. Little things can indeed make a difference, for good or ill. Let's make sure all the little things we do during the day help to make the world a better place.   Proverbs 30:24-28 "There be four things which are little upon the earth, but they are exceeding wise:  The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer; The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make they their houses in the rocks;  The locusts have no king, yet go they forth all of them by bands; The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the armies of the Nephites were small to retain such great possessions, but they put their trust in the Lord who had given them victory over those lands. They wondered why the government had not sent them more assistance, but still placed their trust in God for their deliverance. The stripling warriors had a firm faith and a willingness to keep the commandments of God.  As a result, even though they had been injured, not a one of them had died.  How willing are we to place our trust in God, even when external circumstances look bleak?    Alma 58:32-41 "But behold, our armies are small to maintain so great a number of cities and so great possessions.  But behold, we trust in our God who has given us victory over those lands, insomuch that we have obtained those cities and those lands, which were our own.  Now we do not know the cause that the government does not grant us more strength; neither do those men who came up unto us know why we have not received greater strength. Behold, we do not know but what ye are unsuccessful, and ye have drawn away the forces into that quarter of the land; if so, we do not desire to murmur.  And if it is not so, behold, we fear that there is some faction in the government, that they do not send more men to our assistance; for we know that they are more numerous than that which they have sent. But, behold, it mattereth not—we trust God will deliver us, notwithstanding the weakness of our armies, yea, and deliver us out of the hands of our enemies.  Behold, this is the twenty and ninth year, in the latter end, and we are in the possession of our lands; and the Lamanites have fled to the land of Nephi.  And those sons of the people of Ammon, of whom I have so highly spoken, are with me in the city of Manti; and the Lord has supported them, yea, and kept them from falling by the sword, insomuch that even one soul has not been slain. But behold, they have received many wounds; nevertheless they stand fast in that liberty wherewith God has made them free; and they are strict to remember the Lord their God from day to day; yea, they do observe to keep his statutes, and his judgments, and his commandments continually; and their faith is strong in the prophecies concerning that which is to come.  And now, my beloved brother, Moroni, may the Lord our God, who has redeemed us and made us free, keep you continually in his presence; yea, and may he favor this people, even that ye may have success in obtaining the possession of all that which the Lamanites have taken from us, which was for our support. And now, behold, I close mine epistle. I am Helaman, the son of Alma."

In the New Testament we read that we were not liberated by perishable things like silver or gold from the empty lifestyle we inherited from our ancestors.  Instead, we were freed by the precious blood of Christ, a spotless lamb.  He was chosen before the creation of the world and God raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory.  Our faith and hope should rest in Him.  1 Peter 1:18-21 "Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:  Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,  Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that Jesus was born in a manger because there was o room for him in the inn. A lady was packing up her nativity set after Christmas to put it away for the year.  She filled up the box and then found that there was no room left for the most important figure of the set--the baby Jesus.  She suddenly realized the similarity in her situation what how there was no room in the inn for Jesus when He was born.  Like the innkeeper from long ago, she hadn't intentionally overfilled the space.  But both she and the innkeeper had simply overfilled the available space with other seemingly important stuff, while leaving out the One who really matters--Jesus.  Do we do that in our lives?  Do we fill our lives with other things that seem important and then don't have room enough for Christ?   Luke 2:7 "And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Helaman, Gid and Teomner were ableto take possession of the city of Manti without the shedding of blood by being able to lead the army away from it, except for a few guards. When the Lamanite army came back to the city of Manti and saw that the Nephites were prepared to meet them, they were struck with fear and fled into the wilderness. Indeed, the Lamanites fled out of all that quarter of the land and the cities which had been taken by the Lamanites were regained by the Nephites.   Alma 58:21-31 "And it came to pass that when they had cut them off, they ran to the city and fell upon the guards who were left to guard the city, insomuch that they did destroy them and did take possession of the city. Now this was done because the Lamanites did suffer their whole army, save a few guards only, to be led away into the wilderness.  And it came to pass that Gid and Teomner by this means had obtained possession of their strongholds. And it came to pass that we took our course, after having traveled much in the wilderness towards the land of Zarahemla.  And when the Lamanites saw that they were marching towards the land of Zarahemla, they were exceedingly afraid, lest there was a plan laid to lead them on to destruction; therefore they began to retreat into the wilderness again, yea, even back by the same way which they had come.  And behold, it was night and they did pitch their tents, for the chief captains of the Lamanites had supposed that the Nephites were weary because of their march; and supposing that they had driven their whole army therefore they took no thought concerning the city of Manti. Now it came to pass that when it was night, I caused that my men should not sleep, but that they should march forward by another way towards the land of Manti.  And because of this our march in the night-time, behold, on the morrow we were beyond the Lamanites, insomuch that we did arrive before them at the city of Manti. And thus it came to pass, that by this stratagem we did take possession of the city of Manti without the shedding of blood.  And it came to pass that when the armies of the Lamanites did arrive near the city, and saw that we were prepared to meet them, they were astonished exceedingly and struck with great fear, insomuch that they did flee into the wilderness. Yea, and it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites did flee out of all this quarter of the land. But behold, they have carried with them many women and children out of the land.  And those cities which had been taken by the Lamanites, all of them are at this period of time in our possession; and our fathers and our women and our children are returning to their homes, all save it be those who have been taken prisoners and carried off by the Lamanites."

In the New Testament we read that even though sometimes it's necessary for us to be distressed for a short time by various trials that may come into our lives, we can rejoice in the hope of the Lord.  Our faith needs to be tried to be found genuine.  Our faith is more valuable than gold, which is refined.  Our genuine faith will result in praise, glory and honor for us when Jesus Christ is revealed.  Even though we haven't seen Him, we trust Him ad have faith in Him.  1 Peter 1:6-8 "Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:  Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:"

A verse with a thought booklet tells us hat our hope is in the Lord, and it is Him that we should wait for.  Psalms 39:7 "And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that they did not understand why they were not receiving more provisions from Zarahemla. They poured out their hearts in prayers to God and received assurance that He would deliver them. He did speak peace to their souls. This gave them courage to camp near the city of Manti where the Lamanites decided to attack them, since they were few in number. Helaman secreted part of his men on either side of where the rest were camped.  And when the armies of the Lamanites passed by, Gid and Teomner rose up from their secret places and cut off the spies of the Lamanites so they could not return to the city.   Alma 58:9-20 "And now the cause of these our embarrassments, or the cause why they did not send more strength unto us, we knew not; therefore we were grieved and also filled with fear, lest by any means the judgments of God should come upon our land, to our overthrow and utter destruction. Therefore we did pour out our souls in prayer to God, that he would strengthen us and deliver us out of the hands of our enemies, yea, and also give us strength that we might retain our cities, and our lands, and our possessions, for the support of our people.  Yea, and it came to pass that the Lord our God did visit us with assurances that he would deliver us; yea, insomuch that he did speak peace to our souls, and did grant unto us great faith, and did cause us that we should hope for our deliverance in him.  And we did take courage with our small force which we had received, and were fixed with a determination to conquer our enemies, and to maintain our lands, and our possessions, and our wives, and our children, and the cause of our liberty.  And thus we did go forth with all our might against the Lamanites, who were in the city of Manti; and we did pitch our tents by the wilderness side, which was near to the city. And it came to pass that on the morrow, that when the Lamanites saw that we were in the borders by the wilderness which was near the city, that they sent out their spies round about us that they might discover the number and the strength of our army.  And it came to pass that when they saw that we were not strong, according to our numbers, and fearing that we should cut them off from their support except they should come out to battle against us and kill us, and also supposing that they could easily destroy us with their numerous hosts, therefore they began to make preparations to come out against us to battle.  And when we saw that they were making preparations to come out against us, behold, I caused that Gid, with a small number of men, should secrete himself in the wilderness, and also that Teomner and a small number of men should secrete themselves also in the wilderness.  Now Gid and his men were on the right and the others on the left; and when they had thus secreted themselves, behold, I remained, with the remainder of my army, in that same place where we had first pitched our tents against the time that the Lamanites should come out to battle. And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come out with their numerous army against us. And when they had come and were about to fall upon us with the sword, I caused that my men, those who were with me, should retreat into the wilderness.  And it came to pass that the Lamanites did follow after us with great speed, for they were exceedingly desirous to overtake us that they might slay us; therefore they did follow us into the wilderness; and we did pass by in the midst of Gid and Teomner, insomuch that they were not discovered by the Lamanites.  And it came to pass that when the Lamanites had passed by, or when the army had passed by, Gid and Teomner did rise up from their secret places, and did cut off the spies of the Lamanites that they should not return to the city."

In the New Testament we read that in order to truly keep the law, we need to keep all the commandments and not disregard some of them.  If you don't commit adultery but are guilty of murder, you are still a lawbreaker. We should not pick and choose which commandments to keep, but should obey all of them.  James 2:10-11 "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.  For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law."

A verses with a thought booklet tells us that God created all things in the heaven and the earth, both visible and invisible.  All things were made by Him.  Colossians 1:16 "For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:"

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the Nephites were desirous to obtain the city of Manti, but were waiting to receive more strength from the land of Zarahemla.  However, this waiting didn't profit them much because the Lamanties were also receiving great strength and provisions day by day. But they could not come to battle with them because of their retreats and strongholds. They waited in these difficult circumstances for many months, until they were able to perish in hunger.   Alma 58:1-8 "And behold, now it came to pass that our next object was to obtain the city of Manti; but behold, there was no way that we could lead them out of the city by our small bands. For behold, they remembered that which we had hitherto done; therefore we could not decoy them away from their strongholds. And they were so much more numerous than was our army that we durst not go forth and attack them in their strongholds.  Yea, and it became expedient that we should employ our men to the maintaining those parts of the land which we had regained of our possessions; therefore it became expedient that we should wait, that we might receive more strength from the land of Zarahemla and also a new supply of provisions.  And it came to pass that I thus did send an embassy to the governor of our land, to acquaint him concerning the affairs of our people. And it came to pass that we did wait to receive provisions and strength from the land of Zarahemla.  But behold, this did profit us but little; for the Lamanites were also receiving great strength from day to day, and also many provisions; and thus were our circumstances at this period of time.  And the Lamanites were sallying forth against us from time to time, resolving by stratagem to destroy us; nevertheless we could not come to battle with them, because of their retreats and their strongholds.  And it came to pass that we did wait in these difficult circumstances for the space of many months, even until we were about to perish for the want of food.  But it came to pass that we did receive food, which was guarded to us by an army of two thousand men to our assistance; and this is all the assistance which we did receive, to defend ourselves and our country from falling into the hands of our enemies, yea, to contend with an enemy which was innumerable."

In the New Testament we read that we not only need to hear the Word of God, but we need to obey it. If we claim devotion to God but don't control what we say, we mislead ourselves and our devotion is worthless. True devotion includes caring for widows and orphans and helping them in their difficulties, and keeping ourselves unspotted from the world.  James 1:22-27 "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.  For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:  For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.  But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.  If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.  Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."

Some scriptures with a thought booklet tell us that we can make peace through the blood of the cross, through Him who reconciled all things. Through Jesus' death, our sins are forgiven and we can be presented holy and unblameable in His sight, if we continue in the faith grounded and settled and not moved from the hope of the gospel.  Colossians 1:20-23 "And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.  And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled.  In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:  If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;"

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that after their dead and wounded had been attended to, they asked what happened to the prisoners who were being transported to Zarahelma. Gid told them that as they were traveling, they were met by the spies of their army who told them that the Lamanites were marching toward the city of Cumeni. The prisoners took courage in these words and rose up in revellion against them. A great number of them had to be slain and the remainder broke free and fled. After this happened, Gid and his men returned to Cumeni to help the Nephites fight the battle.  Alma 57:28-36 "And now it came to pass that after we had thus taken care of our wounded men, and had buried our dead and also the dead of the Lamanites, who were many, behold, we did inquire of Gid concerning the prisoners whom they had started to go down to the land of Zarahemla with.  Now Gid was the chief captain over the band who was appointed to guard them down to the land. And now, these are the words which Gid said unto me: Behold, we did start to go down to the land of Zarahemla with our prisoners. And it came to pass that we did meet the spies of our armies, who had been sent out to watch the camp of the Lamanites.  And they cried unto us, saying—Behold, the armies of the Lamanites are marching towards the city of Cumeni; and behold, they will fall upon them, yea, and will destroy our people.  And it came to pass that our prisoners did hear their cries, which caused them to take courage; and they did rise up in rebellion against us.  And it came to pass because of their rebellion we did cause that our swords should come upon them. And it came to pass that they did in a body run upon our swords, in the which, the greater number of them were slain; and the remainder of them broke through and fled from us.  And behold, when they had fled and we could not overtake them, we took our march with speed towards the city Cumeni; and behold, we did arrive in time that we might assist our brethren in preserving the city.  And behold, we are again delivered out of the hands of our enemies. And blessed is the name of our God; for behold, it is he that has delivered us; yea, that has done this great thing for us.  Now it came to pass that when I, Helaman, had heard these words of Gid, I was filled with exceeding joy because of the goodness of God in preserving us, that we might not all perish; yea, and I trust that the souls of them who have been slain have entered into the rest of their God."

The New Testament tells us that our lives should be free from the love of money and we should be content with what we have.  The Lord will not abandon us.  He is our helper and we don't need to be afraid.  Hebrews 13:5-6 "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God proves His love for us by the fact that Christ died for us even while w were still sinners. Jesus Christ is God's gift to the world, and He didn't wait for us to deserve it before He gave this wonderful gift to us!  Now it is up to us to receive this gift, by coming unto Christ and repenting of our sins.  Romans 5:8 "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the Nephites had so many prisoners it was difficult to keep them under control and they were using up valuable provisions to keep them. They decided to send these prisoners to Zarahemla. But the men sent to transport the prisoners came back in time to help them fight the Lamanites who were upon them.  The 2,060 stripling warriors fought with all their might and were firm and undaunted. They were obedient and full of faith. It as because of these stripling warriors, and the men who came back from transporting the prisoners, who gave victory to the battle and allowed them to retain the city of Cumeni. However, the Nephites did suffer great losses. None of the strpling warriors were killed, although thy all received many wounds and 200 of tem fainted because of loss of blood. It was a miracle that none of them was killed, and this was because of their greatfaith and trust in God.  Alma 57:13-27 "But it came to pass that our prisoners were so numerous that, notwithstanding the enormity of our numbers, we were obliged to employ all our force to keep them, or to put them to death.  For behold, they would break out in great numbers, and would fight with stones, and with clubs, or whatsoever thing they could get into their hands, insomuch that we did slay upwards of two thousand of them after they had surrendered themselves prisoners of war.  Therefore it became expedient for us, that we should put an end to their lives, or guard them, sword in hand, down to the land of Zarahemla; and also our provisions were not any more than sufficient for our own people, notwithstanding that which we had taken from the Lamanites.  And now, in those critical circumstances, it became a very serious matter to determine concerning these prisoners of war; nevertheless, we did resolve to send them down to the land of Zarahemla; therefore we selected a part of our men, and gave them charge over our prisoners to go down to the land of Zarahemla.  But it came to pass that on the morrow they did return. And now behold, we did not inquire of them concerning the prisoners; for behold, the Lamanites were upon us, and they returned in season to save us from falling into their hands. For behold, Ammoron had sent to their support a new supply of provisions and also a numerous army of men.  And it came to pass that those men whom we sent with the prisoners did arrive in season to check them, as they were about to overpower us.  But behold, my little band of two thousand and sixty fought most desperately; yea, they were firm before the Lamanites, and did administer death unto all those who opposed them.  And as the remainder of our army were about to give way before the Lamanites, behold, those two thousand and sixty were firm and undaunted.  Yea, and they did obey and observe to perform every word of command with exactness; yea, and even according to their faith it was done unto them; and I did remember the words which they said unto me that their mothers had taught them.  And now behold, it was these my sons, and those men who had been selected to convey the prisoners, to whom we owe this great victory; for it was they who did beat the Lamanites; therefore they were driven back to the city of Manti.  And we retained our city Cumeni, and were not all destroyed by the sword; nevertheless, we had suffered great loss.  And it came to pass that after the Lamanites had fled, I immediately gave orders that my men who had been wounded should be taken from among the dead, and caused that their wounds should be dressed.  And it came to pass that there were two hundred, out of my two thousand and sixty, who had fainted because of the loss of blood; nevertheless, according to the goodness of God, and to our great astonishment, and also the joy of our whole army, there was not one soul of them who did perish; yea, and neither was there one soul among them who had not received many wounds.  And now, their preservation was astonishing to our whole army, yea, that they should be spared while there was a thousand of our brethren who were slain. And we do justly ascribe it to the miraculous power of God, because of their exceeding faith in that which they had been taught to believe—that there was a just God, and whosoever did not doubt, that they should be preserved by his marvelous power.  Now this was the faith of these of whom I have spoken; they are young, and their minds are firm, and they do put their trust in God continually."

In the New Testament we read that the Lord disciplines those that He loves. Just as any loving parent disciples their children, so does our Heavenly Father disciple us, His children, for our own good.  Even though being chastened is no fun when it happens to us, it really is for our best.  Hebrews 12:5-11 "And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.  If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that having a heavy heart can make our spirits droop, but a kind word can make us glad.  How many times during the day do we encounter people with heavy hearts and burdens that are weighing them down?  Perhaps a kind and encouraging word from us can make all the difference!  Proverbs 12:25 "Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the Nephites received provisions, as well as the addition of 60 young men to the stripling warriors. They had a strong force and were desirous to wage a battle with the army which had been placed to protect the city of Cumeni. They waited until they were about to receive provisions and were able to take those provisions and the people who were delivering them.  Then the people in the city lost hope and yielded the city up to the Nephites.   Alma 57:6-12 "And it came to pass that in the commencement of the twenty and ninth year, we received a supply of provisions, and also an addition to our army, from the land of Zarahemla, and from the land round about, to the number of six thousand men, besides sixty of the sons of the Ammonites who had come to join their brethren, my little band of two thousand. And now behold, we were strong, yea, and we had also plenty of provisions brought unto us.  And it came to pass that it was our desire to wage a battle with the army which was placed to protect the city Cumeni.  And now behold, I will show unto you that we soon accomplished our desire; yea, with our strong force, or with a part of our strong force, we did surround, by night, the city Cumeni, a little before they were to receive a supply of provisions. And it came to pass that we did camp round about the city for many nights; but we did sleep upon our swords, and keep guards, that the Lamanites could not come upon us by night and slay us, which they attempted many times; but as many times as they attempted this their blood was spilt.  At length their provisions did arrive, and they were about to enter the city by night. And we, instead of being Lamanites, were Nephites; therefore, we did take them and their provisions.  And notwithstanding the Lamanites being cut off from their support after this manner, they were still determined to maintain the city; therefore it became expedient that we should take those provisions and send them to Judea, and our prisoners to the land of Zarahemla.  And it came to pass that not many days had passed away before the Lamanites began to lose all hopes of succor; therefore they yielded up the city unto our hands; and thus we had accomplished our designs in obtaining the city Cumeni."

In the New Testament we read that we should love and encourage one another, and perform good deeds.  We should meet together with other believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:  Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that it is the work of Gd to believe on Him whom He has sent--Jesus Christ!  John 6:29 "Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Ammoron the king sent an epistle to Helaman saying that if he would deliver up the prisoners of war he would deliver up the city of Antiparah.  But Helaman sent an epistle back saying that he was sure their forces were strong enough to take the city of Antiparah anyway.  He said they would only deliver up prisons by exchange.  But Ammoron refused to do this so Helaman began to make preparations for battle. The people of Antiparah fled so the city fell into the hands of Helaman.  Alma 57:1-5 "And now it came to pass that I received an epistle from Ammoron, the king, stating that if I would deliver up those prisoners of war whom we had taken that he would deliver up the city of Antiparah unto us.  But I sent an epistle unto the king, that we were sure our forces were sufficient to take the city of Antiparah by our force; and by delivering up the prisoners for that city we should suppose ourselves unwise, and that we would only deliver up our prisoners on exchange.  And Ammoron refused mine epistle, for he would not exchange prisoners; therefore we began to make preparations to go against the city of Antiparah.  But the people of Antiparah did leave the city, and fled to their other cities, which they had possession of, to fortify them; and thus the city of Antiparah fell into our hands.  And thus ended the twenty and eighth year of the reign of the judges."

In the New Testament we're told that the Lord will remember our sins and iniquities no more.  What a comfort it is to know that if we'll repent of our sins, we'll be forgiven and the Lord will no longer remember them! Another point we can learn from this verse is that if the Lord can forget about our past sins, shouldn't be likewise be willing to forget about past sin, both our own and those of other people?  Sometimes we have trouble forgiving ourselves and continue to feel unworthy long after we've repented.  And sometimes we remember the mistakes of others, even after years or decades have passed and they've long since turned their lives around.  This should not be! If God can forget sins that have been repented of, we likewise need to do the same.   Hebrews 10:17 "And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the wages of sin is death, but God gave us the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Helaman and his stripling warriors went back and saw that Antipus and his men were battling with the Lamanites. Antipus and his army were weary and would have lost the battle to the Lamanites if Helaman and his stripling warriors had not arrived when they did. But with their added strength, the Lamanites delivered up their weapons of war and gave themselves up as prisoners. The stripling warriors had fought as if with the strength of God and not one of them had been slain.   Alma 56: 49-57 "And it came to pass that I did return with my two thousand against these Lamanites who had pursued us. And now behold, the armies of Antipus had overtaken them, and a terrible battle had commenced.  The army of Antipus being weary, because of their long march in so short a space of time, were about to fall into the hands of the Lamanites; and had I not returned with my two thousand they would have obtained their purpose.  For Antipus had fallen by the sword, and many of his leaders, because of their weariness, which was occasioned by the speed of their march—therefore the men of Antipus, being confused because of the fall of their leaders, began to give way before the Lamanites. And it came to pass that the Lamanites took courage, and began to pursue them; and thus were the Lamanites pursuing them with great vigor when Helaman came upon their rear with his two thousand, and began to slay them exceedingly, insomuch that the whole army of the Lamanites halted and turned upon Helaman.  Now when the people of Antipus saw that the Lamanites had turned them about, they gathered together their men and came again upon the rear of the Lamanites.  And now it came to pass that we, the people of Nephi, the people of Antipus, and I with my two thousand, did surround the Lamanites, and did slay them; yea, insomuch that they were compelled to deliver up their weapons of war and also themselves as prisoners of war.  And now it came to pass that when they had surrendered themselves up unto us, behold, I numbered those young men who had fought with me, fearing lest there were many of them slain.  But behold, to my great joy, there had not one soul of them fallen to the earth; yea, and they had fought as if with the strength of God; yea, never were men known to have fought with such miraculous strength; and with such mighty power did they fall upon the Lamanites, that they did frighten them; and for this cause did the Lamanites deliver themselves up as prisoners of war.  And as we had no place for our prisoners, that we could guard them to keep them from the armies of the Lamanites, therefore we sent them to the land of Zarahemla, and a part of those men who were not slain of Antipus, with them; and the remainder I took and joined them to my stripling Ammonites, and took our march back to the city of Judea."

In the New Testament we read about the new covenant that the Lord would make with Israel.  He would be their God and they would be His people, and all would know Him.  He will remember their sins no more.  Hebrews 8:7-13 "For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.  For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah:  Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.  For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:  And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.  For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.  In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us there is no fear in love and that perfect love casts out fear.   1 John 4:18 "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Helaman marched his stripling warriors to a neighboring city, as if they were carrying provisions. So Antipus marked forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. Helaman marched to Antiparah, where the strongest army of the Lamanites were stationed, and then they ran away, leading the Lamanites after them. The army of Antipus was behind chasing after the Lamanites.  When the Helaman and his warriors saw that the Lamanites were no longer persuing them they thought Anipus might have caught up with the Lamanites and were battling with them.  The stripling warriors very courageously said they would go back to see what was happening and help Antipus if there was a battle. These young men had been taught that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them.   Alma 56: 30- 48 "Now when we saw that the Lamanites began to grow uneasy on this wise, we were desirous to bring a stratagem into effect upon them; therefore Antipus ordered that I should march forth with my little sons to a neighboring city, as if we were carrying provisions to a neighboring city.  And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore.  And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city. And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah. And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous.  And it came to pass that when they had been informed by their spies, they came forth with their army and marched against us.  And it came to pass that we did flee before them, northward. And thus we did lead away the most powerful army of the Lamanites; 7 Yea, even to a considerable distance, insomuch that when they saw the army of Antipus pursuing them, with their might, they did not turn to the right nor to the left, but pursued their march in a straight course after us; and, as we suppose, it was their intent to slay us before Antipus should overtake them, and this that they might not be surrounded by our people.  And now Antipus, beholding our danger, did speed the march of his army. But behold, it was night; therefore they did not overtake us, neither did Antipus overtake them; therefore we did camp for the night.  And it came to pass that before the dawn of the morning, behold, the Lamanites were pursuing us. Now we were not sufficiently strong to contend with them; yea, I would not suffer that my little sons should fall into their hands; therefore we did continue our march, and we took our march into the wilderness.  Now they durst not turn to the right nor to the left lest they should be surrounded; neither would I turn to the right nor to the left lest they should overtake me, and we could not stand against them, but be slain, and they would make their escape; and thus we did flee all that day into the wilderness, even until it was dark. And it came to pass that again, when the light of the morning came we saw the Lamanites upon us, and we did flee before them.  But it came to pass that they did not pursue us far before they halted; and it was in the morning of the third day of the seventh month.  And now, whether they were overtaken by Antipus we knew not, but I said unto my men: Behold, we know not but they have halted for the purpose that we should come against them, that they might catch us in their snare;  Therefore what say ye, my sons, will ye go against them to battle? And now I say unto you, my beloved brother Moroni, that never had I seen so great courage, nay, not amongst all the Nephites.  For as I had ever called them my sons (for they were all of them very young) even so they said unto me: Father, behold our God is with us, and he will not suffer that we should fall; then let us go forth; we would not slay our brethren if they would let us alone; therefore let us go, lest they should overpower the army of Antipus.  Now they never had fought, yet they did not fear death; and they did think more upon the liberty of their fathers than they did upon their lives; yea, they had been taught by their mothers, that if they did not doubt, God would deliver them.  And they rehearsed unto me the words of their mothers, saying: We do not doubt our mothers knew it."

In the New Testament we read that God will not forget the work and labor of love that we perform in His name and how we minister to others.  Hebrews 6:10 "For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the grass may wither and the flower ma fade, but the Word of God will stand forever.  Isaiah 40:8 "The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever."

from: Wilbur Little

Hi! How are you? 

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Wilbur Little 
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Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the Nephites did not want to attack the Lamanites in their strongholds, but wanted to Lamanites to come after them.  They sent spies to watch the movement of the Lamanites. The Lamanites were determined to retain the cities they had taken. The fathers of the 2,000 stripling warriors sent provisions and this concerned the Lamanites who were determined to put an end to their provisions and strength.   Alma 56: 21-29 "Now we were desirous that the Lamanites should come upon us; for we were not desirous to make an attack upon them in their strongholds.  And it came to pass that we kept spies out round about, to watch the movements of the Lamanites, that they might not pass us by night nor by day to make an attack upon our other cities which were on the northward.  For we knew in those cities they were not sufficiently strong to meet them; therefore we were desirous, if they should pass by us, to fall upon them in their rear, and thus bring them up in the rear at the same time they were met in the front. We supposed that we could overpower them; but behold, we were disappointed in this our desire.  They durst not pass by us with their whole army, neither durst they with a part, lest they should not be sufficiently strong and they should fall.  Neither durst they march down against the city of Zarahemla; neither durst they cross the head of Sidon, over to the city of Nephihah.  And thus, with their forces, they were determined to maintain those cities which they had taken.  And now it came to pass in the second month of this year, there was brought unto us many provisions from the fathers of those my two thousand sons.  And also there were sent two thousand men unto us from the land of Zarahemla. And thus we were prepared with ten thousand men, and provisions for them, and also for their wives and their children. And the Lamanites, thus seeing our forces increase daily, and provisions arrive for our support, they began to be fearful, and began to sally forth, if it were possible to put an end to our receiving provisions and strength."

I the New Testament we read that the Son is the light of God's glory and the imprint of God's being. He maintains everything with His powerful message.  After He cleansed people from their sins, He sat down on the right side of God.  Hebrews 1:3 "Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;"

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, caused the light to shine in our hearts to give us the light of knowledge of God's glory in the face of Jesus Christ.  2 Corinthians 4:6 "For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the army of Antipus was reduced because so many had been slain and the Lamanites tok several cities through bloodshed. Antipus was toiling mightily trying to fortify the city of Judea when Helaman and his stripling warriors arrived. Their arrival stopped the Lamanites from further attack.  Alma 56: 10-20 "And I did join my two thousand sons, (for they are worthy to be called sons) to the army of Antipus, in which strength Antipus did rejoice exceedingly; for behold, his army had been reduced by the Lamanites because their forces had slain a vast number of our men, for which cause we have to mourn.  Nevertheless, we may console ourselves in this point, that they have died in the cause of their country and of their God, yea, and they are happy.  And the Lamanites had also retained many prisoners, all of whom are chief captains, for none other have they spared alive. And we suppose that they are now at this time in the land of Nephi; it is so if they are not slain.  And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men: The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah.  And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city.  Yea, and they were depressed in body as well as in spirit, for they had fought valiantly by day and toiled by night to maintain their cities; and thus they had suffered great afflictions of every kind.  And now they were determined to conquer in this place or die; therefore you may well suppose that this little force which I brought with me, yea, those sons of mine, gave them great hopes and much joy.  And now it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that Antipus had received a greater strength to his army, they were compelled by the orders of Ammoron to not come against the city of Judea, or against us, to battle.  And thus were we favored of the Lord; for had they come upon us in this our weakness they might have perhaps destroyed our little army; but thus were we preserved. They were commanded by Ammoron to maintain those cities which they had taken. And thus ended the twenty and sixth year. And in the commencement of the twenty and seventh year we had prepared our city and ourselves for defence."

In the New Testament we read that those who claim to know God but who are disobedient, deny they know Him by the things that they do.  Titus 1:16 "They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us not to judge others if we ourselves don't want to be judged.  This is a short verse which we'd do well to memorize whenever we're tempted to pass judgment on other people.  Matthew 7:1 "Judge not, that ye be not judged."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Helaman sent an epistle to Moroni recounting the state of the war with the Lamanites and telling about the 2,000 stripling warriors.  Alma 56: 1-9 "And now it came to pass in the commencement of the thirtieth year of the reign of the judges, on the second day in the first month, Moroni received an epistle from Helaman, stating the affairs of the people in that quarter of the land.  And these are the words which he wrote, saying: My dearly beloved brother, Moroni, as well in the Lord as in the tribulations of our warfare; behold, my beloved brother, I have somewhat to tell you concerning our warfare in this part of the land. Behold, two thousand of the sons of those men whom Ammon brought down out of the land of Nephi—now ye have known that these were descendants of Laman, who was the eldest son of our father Lehi;  Now I need not rehearse unto you concerning their traditions or their unbelief, for thou knowest concerning all these things— 5 Therefore it sufficeth me that I tell you that two thousand of these young men have taken their weapons of war, and would that I should be their leader; and we have come forth to defend our country.  And now ye also know concerning the covenant which their fathers made, that they would not take up their weapons of war against their brethren to shed blood. But in the twenty and sixth year, when they saw our afflictions and our tribulations for them, they were about to break the covenant which they had made and take up their weapons of war in our defence. But I would not suffer them that they should break this covenant which they had made, supposing that God would strengthen us, insomuch that we should not suffer more because of the fulfilling the oath which they had taken.  But behold, here is one thing in which we may have great joy. For behold, in the twenty and sixth year, I, Helaman, did march at the head of these two thousand young men to the city of Judea, to assist Antipus, whom ye had appointed a leader over the people of that part of the land."


In the New Testament we're told to avoid godless and foolish discussions which can lead people into unrighteous behavior and contention. False ideas can spread like an infection and undermine some people's faith. We need to pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, and confess the Lord with a clean heart. God's servants should not be argumentative but shold be kind toward all people, able to teach, patient, and should correct opponents with gentleness. Perhaps they will cange their minds and come to a knowledge of the truth, escaping from the devil's trip that holds them captive to do his will.   2 Timothy 2:16-18, 22-26 "But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.  And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenæus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.  Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,  In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;  And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will."

A verse with a thought booklet is one we need to be constantly reminded of.  We should not worry about anything, but instead give thanks in everything in our prayers, and make our requests known to God. Instead of doubting, stressing, and worrying, we should let go of the concerns of the day, relax, and let God fill our hearts and minds. Easier said than done, but it will bring us peace.   Philippians 4:6 "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that the Nephites were again about to be victorious and to reclaim their rights and privileges. The attempts of the Lamanites to give them poison were thwarted. Moroni made preparations to attack the city of Morianton, which had become a great stronghold.  Alma 55:28-35 "And it came to pass that the Nephites began again to be victorious, and to reclaim their rights and their privileges.  Many times did the Lamanites attempt to encircle them about by night, but in these attempts they did lose many prisoners.  And many times did they attempt to administer of their wine to the Nephites, that they might destroy them with poison or with drunkenness.  But behold, the Nephites were not slow to remember the Lord their God in this their time of affliction. They could not be taken in their snares; yea, they would not partake of their wine, save they had first given to some of the Lamanite prisoners.  And they were thus cautious that no poison should be administered among them; for if their wine would poison a Lamanite it would also poison a Nephite; and thus they did try all their liquors. And now it came to pass that it was expedient for Moroni to make preparations to attack the city Morianton; for behold, the Lamanites had, by their labors, fortified the city Morianton until it had become an exceeding stronghold.  And they were continually bringing new forces into that city, and also new supplies of provisions. And thus ended the twenty and ninth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi."

The New Testament teaches us what the proper attitude toward money should be. Instead of seeking for worldly riches, we should be content with what we already have.  If we have food and clothing we should be happy.  We didn't bring anything into this world and we won't take anything out of it when we leave. People who are trying to get rich can easily fall into all kinds of temptations and can become trapped by harmful passions that plunge people into ruin and destruction. The love of money is the root of all all kinds of evil and when people make money their goal it can cause them to wander away from the faith and cause much pain. It's important for people who are rich not to become egotistical and not to place their hope on their finances, which are uncertain. Instead, they need to hope in God who richly provides everything for our enjoyment.  We need to do good and be rich in the good things we do--being generous and sharing with others.  When we do these things, we will be laying up treasure for ourselves in the future. 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 17-19  "But godliness with contentment is great gain.  For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.  And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.  But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.  For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;  That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life."

A verse with a thought booklet tells us that the Lord is good to those who seek Him.  Lamentations 3:25 "The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that after the Lamanite guards had become drunk and were in a deep sleep, Moroni and his men were able to go into the city of Gid where the Nephite prisoners were kept and arm them with weapons. Then he had his men surround the city.  So when the Lamanites awoke they were surrounded by the Nephites from without and discovered that the prisoners from within were all armed. So saw that it was useless to fight so they gave up their weapons and surrendered.  The Nephites were able to take the city of Gid without bloodshed. The Nephite prisoners were all freed and able to be a great strength to teh armies of the Nephites.  Alma 55:16-27 "And now this was according to the design of Moroni. And Moroni had prepared his men with weapons of war; and he went to the city Gid, while the Lamanites were in a deep sleep and drunken, and cast in weapons of war unto the prisoners, insomuch that they were all armed;  Yea, even to their women, and all those of their children, as many as were able to use a weapon of war, when Moroni had armed all those prisoners; and all those things were done in a profound silence. But had they awakened the Lamanites, behold they were drunken and the Nephites could have slain them.  But behold, this was not the desire of Moroni; he did not delight in murder or bloodshed, but he delighted in the saving of his people from destruction; and for this cause he might not bring upon him injustice, he would not fall upon the Lamanites and destroy them in their drunkenness.  But he had obtained his desires; for he had armed those prisoners of the Nephites who were within the wall of the city, and had given them power to gain possession of those parts which were within the walls.  And then he caused the men who were with him to withdraw a pace from them, and surround the armies of the Lamanites.  Now behold this was done in the night-time, so that when the Lamanites awoke in the morning they beheld that they were surrounded by the Nephites without, and that their prisoners were armed within.  And thus they saw that the Nephites had power over them; and in these circumstances they found that it was not expedient that they should fight with the Nephites; therefore their chief captains demanded their weapons of war, and they brought them forth and cast them at the feet of the Nephites, pleading for mercy.  Now behold, this was the desire of Moroni. He took them prisoners of war, and took possession of the city, and caused that all the prisoners should be liberated, who were Nephites; and they did join the army of Moroni, and were a great strength to his army.  And it came to pass that he did cause the Lamanites, whom he had taken prisoners, that they should commence a labor in strengthening the fortifications round about the city Gid.  And it came to pass that when he had fortified the city Gid, according to his desires, he caused that his prisoners should be taken to the city Bountiful; and he also guarded that city with an exceedingly strong force.  And it came to pass that they did, notwithstanding all the intrigues of the Lamanites, keep and protect all the prisoners whom they had taken, and also maintain all the ground and the advantage which they had retaken."

In the New Testament we read that while physical training has some value, training in holy living is useful for everything.  It has promise for this life now and for the life to come as well.  1 Timothy 4:8-9 "For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.  This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation."

A verse with a thought booklet tell us that Jesus is the door by which we must enter to be saved.  He came that we may have life, and have it abundantly!  John 10:9-10 "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Moroni was angry with Ammoron's reply because he knew that Ammoron knew that his cause was not just. Moroni refused to exchange prisoners unless Ammoron withdrew his purpose. So Moroni drew up a plan to get his prisoners back.  He sent a man named Laman with some other men to the place where the Nephite prisoners were kept, the city of Gid. They approached the Lamanites claiming to be Lamanites themselves and claming to have escaped from the Nephites, having stolen their wine and brought it with them. This wine had been specially prepared to be extra strong and when the Lamanites drank it freely, they became drunk and went into a deep sleep.  Alma 55:1-15 "Now it came to pass that when Moroni had received this epistle he was more angry, because he knew that Ammoron had a perfect knowledge of his fraud; yea, he knew that Ammoron knew that it was not a just cause that had caused him to wage a war against the people of Nephi.  And he said: Behold, I will not exchange prisoners with Ammoron save he will withdraw his purpose, as I have stated in my epistle; for I will not grant unto him that he shall have any more power than what he hath got. Behold, I know the place where the Lamanites do guard my people whom they have taken prisoners; and as Ammoron would not grant unto me mine epistle, behold, I will give unto him according to my words; yea, I will seek death among them until they shall sue for peace.  And now it came to pass that when Moroni had said these words, he caused that a search should be made among his men, that perhaps he might find a man who was a descendant of Laman among them.  And it came to pass that they found one, whose name was Laman; and he was one of the servants of the king who was murdered by Amalickiah.  Now Moroni caused that Laman and a small number of his men should go forth unto the guards who were over the Nephites. Now the Nephites were guarded in the city of Gid; therefore Moroni appointed Laman and caused that a small number of men should go with him. And when it was evening Laman went to the guards who were over the Nephites, and behold, they saw him coming and they hailed him; but he saith unto them: Fear not; behold, I am a Lamanite. Behold, we have escaped from the Nephites, and they sleep; and behold we have taken of their wine and brought with us.  Now when the Lamanites heard these words they received him with joy; and they said unto him: Give us of your wine, that we may drink; we are glad that ye have thus taken wine with you for we are weary.  But Laman said unto them: Let us keep of our wine till we go against the Nephites to battle. But this saying only made them more desirous to drink of the wine;  For, said they: We are weary, therefore let us take of the wine, and by and by we shall receive wine for our rations, which will strengthen us to go against the Nephites.  And Laman said unto them: You may do according to your desires. And it came to pass that they did take of the wine freely; and it was pleasant to their taste, therefore they took of it more freely; and it was strong, having been prepared in its strength.  And it came to pass they did drink and were merry, and by and by they were all drunken.  And now when Laman and his men saw that they were all drunken, and were in a deep sleep, they returned to Moroni and told him all the things that had happened."

In the New Testament we're told to pray for all people, including our political leaders.  God wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.  1 Timothy 2:1-4 "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.  For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;  Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth."

Some verses with a thought booklet tell us that the grace of God which brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us to deny all ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live righteously in this present world while looking forward with hope to the glorious appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us fro all iniquity.  Titus 2:11-14 "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,  Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;  Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;  Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read Ammoron's angry reply to Moroni's epistle from yesterday's reading  He said he didn't fear Moroni's threatenings and would avenge the blood of his brother. He claimed that the Nephites had robbed the Lamanites of their rights and demanded that the Nephites lay down their arms and become subject unto the Lamanites. He agrees to exchange prisoners. Alma 54:15-24 "Now it came to pass that Ammoron, when he had received this epistle, was angry; and he wrote another epistle unto Moroni, and these are the words which he wrote, saying:  I am Ammoron, the king of the Lamanites; I am the brother of Amalickiah whom ye have murdered. Behold, I will avenge his blood upon you, yea, and I will come upon you with my armies for I fear not your threatenings.  For behold, your fathers did wrong their brethren, insomuch that they did rob them of their right to the government when it rightly belonged unto them.  And now behold, if ye will lay down your arms, and subject yourselves to be governed by those to whom the government doth rightly belong, then will I cause that my people shall lay down their weapons and shall be at war no more.  Behold, ye have breathed out many threatenings against me and my people; but behold, we fear not your threatenings.  Nevertheless, I will grant to exchange prisoners according to your request, gladly, that I may preserve my food for my men of war; and we will wage a war which shall be eternal, either to the subjecting the Nephites to our authority or to their eternal extinction.  And as concerning that God whom ye say we have rejected, behold, we know not such a being; neither do ye; but if it so be that there is such a being, we know not but that he hath made us as well as you.  And if it so be that there is a devil and a hell, behold will he not send you there to dwell with my brother whom ye have murdered, whom ye have hinted that he hath gone to such a place? But behold these things matter not. I am Ammoron, and a descendant of Zoram, whom your fathers pressed and brought out of Jerusalem.  And behold now, I am a bold Lamanite; behold, this war hath been waged to avenge their wrongs, and to maintain and to obtain their rights to the government; and I close my epistle to Moroni."

The New Testament tells us to warn those who are disorderly, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, and be patient with everyone.  We should not repay a wrong with another wrong, but should always pursue good for one another. We should rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in every situation.  This is God's will for us.  1 Thessalonians 5:14-18 "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.  See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.  Rejoice evermore.  Pray without ceasing.  In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

A verse wit a thought booklet tells us the Lord will lead the blind by ways they have not known, and guide them along unfamiliar paths. He will turn darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth.  He will not forsake them.  Are we ever blind in not being able to see which way to go or how to follow the path the Lord wants us to travel?  If so, we can rest assured that the Lord will not forsake us.  He will lead and guide us as we trust in Him and ask for His help.  Isaiah 42:16 "And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them."

Daily Thoughts

In the Book of Mormon we read that Ammoron wanted to exchange prisoners with Moroni. Moroni replied by chastising Ammoron for the unjust war he had waged against the Nephites. Moroni reaffirmed that if the Lamanites continued their attacks on the Nephites, they would be visited with death and destruction. He further told him that the only way he'd be willing to exchange prisioner is if Ammoron gave up a man and his wife and children in exchange for each Lamanite prisoner. Alma 54:1-14 "And now it came to pass in the commencement of the twenty and ninth year of the judges, that Ammoron sent unto Moroni desiring that he would exchange prisoners.  And it came to pass that Moroni felt to rejoice exceedingly at this request, for he desired the provisions which were imparted for the support of the Lamanite prisoners for the support of his own people; and he also desired his own people for the strengthening of his army.  Now the Lamanites had taken many women and children, and there was not a woman nor a child among all the prisoners of Moroni, or the prisoners whom Moroni had taken; therefore Moroni resolved upon a stratagem to obtain as many prisoners of the Nephites from the Lamanites as it were possible.  Therefore he wrote an epistle, and sent it by the servant of Ammoron, the same who had brought an epistle to Moroni. Now these are the words which he wrote unto Ammoron, saying: Behold, Ammoron, I have written unto you somewhat concerning this war which ye have waged against my people, or rather which thy brother hath waged against them, and which ye are still determined to carry on after his death.  Behold, I would tell you somewhat concerning the justice of God, and the sword of his almighty wrath, which doth hang over you except ye repent and withdraw your armies into your own lands, or the land of your possessions, which is the land of Nephi. Yea, I would tell you these things if ye were capable of hearkening unto them; yea, I would tell you concerning that awful hell that awaits to receive such murderers as thou and thy brother have been, except ye repent and withdraw your murderous purposes, and return with your armies to your own lands. But as ye have once rejected these things, and have fought against the people of the Lord, even so I may expect you will do it again.  And now behold, we are prepared to receive you; yea, and except you withdraw your purposes, behold, ye will pull down the wrath of that God whom you have rejected upon you, even to your utter destruction.  But, as the Lord liveth, our armies shall come upon you except ye withdraw, and ye shall soon be visited with death, for we will retain our cities and our lands; yea, and we will maintain our religion and the cause of our God.  But behold, it supposeth me that I talk to you concerning these things in vain; or it supposeth me that thou art a child of hell; therefore I will close my epistle by telling you that I will not exchange prisoners, save it be on conditions that ye will deliver up a man and his wife and his children, for one prisoner; if this be the case that ye will do it, I will exchange.  And behold, if ye do not this, I will come against you with my armies; yea, even I will arm my women and my children, and I will come against you, and I will follow you even into your own land, which is the land of our first inheritance; yea, and it shall be blood for blood, yea, life for life; and I will give you battle even until you are destroyed from off the face of the earth.  Behold, I am in my anger, and also my people; ye have sought to murder us, and we have only sought to defend ourselves. But behold, if ye seek to destroy us more we will seek to destroy you; yea, and we will seek our land, the land of our first inheritance.  Now I close my epistle. I am Moroni; I am a leader of the people of the Nephites."

In the New Testament we read that whatever we do, we need to do it from the heart, for God and not for other people. If we do this we will receive our eternal reward for serving Christ.  But evildoers will receive  their just punishment for their wicked actions.  Colossians 3:23-25 "And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;  Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.  But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons."

A verse with a thought booklet reminds us that if we love God and serve as we are called, all things will work together for our good.  Romans 8:28 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."